Organizational Communication: Strategic Communication
The strategic communication emphasis is for students with a passion for communicating the right information, to the right people, in the right way. This area of study helps students thrive in the high-pressure and cutting-edge fields of corporate communication and public relations.
Why should I study strategic communication?
Organizations need qualified and talented professionals to help them communicate effectively to diverse audiences. These individuals formulate key ideas and, often, address highly sensitive topics on behalf of the organization. Strategic communicators make great leaders and are prized for their analytical skills.
As an organizational communication major with an emphasis in strategic communication, you'll explore organizational structures, cultures, and effective communication practices while cultivating the skills to relay timely, sensitive, and impactful information.
What can I do with this degree?
The B.A. in Organizational Communication opens doors to a myriad of career opportunities. Our graduates work for businesses such as:
- Target
- The Minnesota Twins
- 3M
- Amazon
and various marketing groups. You will also find them well-represented in nonprofit organizations such as:
- Minnesota Adult and Teen Challenge
- Ronald McDonald House
- St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital
Specifically, the strategic communication emphasis helps students specialize in:
- Public relations
- Strategic social media
- Marketing communication
- Management
- Sales
- Consulting
- Product and integrated marketing
...and pairs nicely with a minor in leadership studies.
The strategic communication emphasis also prepares students to pursue graduate study in:
- Law
- Politics
- Communication
- Marketing
- Management
- Leadership
What skills will I develop?
- Analytical thinking
- Strategic communication planning
- Communication analysis
- Communication in crisis situations
- Corporate decision making
- Interpersonal communication
- Public relations writing
You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.
What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?
Earn an individualized degree
Students from all emphases within the organizational communication major are required to complete core communication studies courses. You will also benefit from a variety of courses that will help you to succeed in an organizational setting. On top of this, you'll choose courses tailored to your emphasis and other areas of interest. Strategic communication courses offered include, but are not limited to Public Relations Writing and Strategies; Crisis Communication; and Communication Campaigns.
Engage in hands-on learning
All students majoring in communication studies complete an internship in communication. As an organizational communication major with a strategic communication emphasis, your internship will be tailored to your specific area of interest—providing real-world, applicable experience.
Learn from experienced professors
Our professors have been recognized for their excellence as instructors and scholars and will partner with you as mentors and advisees as you prepare for your future career. Betsy Anderson, Ph.D., APR, has a professional background in public relations and is an active member of the Minnesota Public Relations Society of America (PRSA).
158
students majoring in the department
150
students presented at regional conferences in the past 7 years
Recent News
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I’m so grateful for my Bethel experience! I cultivated deep friendships and had wonderful leadership and spiritual development opportunities. Combined with, the learning experience and faculty relationships through the Communications and Business departments, it all prepared me for great leadership opportunities.
David Horsager '95, GS'07Current job: Author, Speaker, Consultant and CEO, Horsager Leadership, Inc.
I’m so thankful for this program. Professors provided challenging and thought-provoking courses. They were available to counsel and encourage us in our pursuits. I gained confidence because several professors provided guidance in what they felt were my strengths, helping me apply those to my career.
Sarah Jean Knox '08Current job: Owner/Auctioneer, Sarah Knox Benefit Auctions
The Communication department does an excellent job providing the tools needed to find a job. I was prepared and confident entering the marketplace, and was able to use the knowledge from my communication coursework to find a good job quickly.
Tyler Jass '11Current job: Student Visitor Program Coordinator and Admissions Counselor at The Evergreen State College, Olympia, WA
My communication professors were truly invested in my education and cared about helping me find my passion. I use the knowledge, skills, and experience I gained in classes like Corporate Communication and Organizational Communication in my job every day.
Kelsey Jass '11Current job: Product Marketing Specialist at Deluxe Corporation
My time at Bethel was invaluable and the Communication department was a major part of that. I felt empowered by the professors to be a leader and to create opportunities for myself both personally and professionally.
Meghan Harmison '08Current job: Director of Adult Ministries and Outreach, Salem Lutheran Church